Doing unto others

Matthew 7:12: "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets."

Luke 6:31: "Do to others as you would have them do to you."

Since my kiddos were little, my goal was to teach them to do unto others...AND not expect anything in return. I want them to see that life doesn't always revolve around just them. It is o.k. to do something for someone else...give them something, make something for them etc...and know nothing will be returned to them. Sometimes not even a simple thank you. It is sometimes a struggle just to get through our own day, but for me "doing unto others" is an important thing to teach them while they are young. An important thing to model. It has been a struggle trying to answer their tough questions of why we buy presents or send surprise gift packages to friends when nothing is given back. Why do we volunteer or help with certain projects? It is because the Bible says...do unto to others. Do. Not recieve unto others. Do.

Jocelyn loves making meals and goodies!

We had many little lessons just this past year of doing for others such as all four kiddos having some type of formal or informal birthday party with friends. I would make lunch/dinner and provide cake...but request that no presents be given. It was a hard thing for them to grasp at first because for little ones that is the thrill of turning a new age, but I wanted them to focus on the "do"-ing. We were providing entertainment, food, and fun. You know...they all survived and after the event no one complained about not receiving a gift in the physical form. Don't worry they were not completely deprived...they still received a few gifts from grandparents and aunts/uncles.

No presents here...but still a lot of fun with friends and laughter!

Now that my girls are getting older, I am slowly seeing signs of...YES!! They are getting it. They are now reminding me..."hey are we going to do such and such, for so and so this year." Love it when things start to sink in!

No my kids are not prefect in any way shape or form...but seeing that helpful heart of wanting to do, makes me smile!:)

 

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